This species is known with certainty only from the vicinity of the type locality, Khandala, in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India, and from localities near Mumbai. Records from further south in Maharashtra, and from Okha in southern Gujarat, require confirmation. It has an altitudinal range of 300-1,300m asl.

Habitat and Ecology

This is a subterranean species in humus-rich soil and leaf-litter. Specimens have been collected under rocks on grassy hillsides and also in cultivated areas, and possibly in associated dry forest. Although its reproductive mode is not known, that of its closest suspected relatives (Gegeneophis spp.) is oviparity with terrestrial eggs that develop directly.

Population

The population status of this species is unknown.

Population Trend

unknown

Major Threats

The threats to this species are unknown and require further investigation, especially as this species has been recorded from agricultural areas. Potential threats include the conversion of forest to agricultural land, harvesting of wood and timber by local people for subsistence purposes, road construction, agrochemical soil pollution and fires.

Conservation Actions

It is known to occur in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, and has been reported from Konya Wild Life Sanctuary and Phansad Wild Life Sanctuary (Maharashtra). It is in need of taxonomic review (Wilkinson pers. comm.).

Red List Status

Data Deficient (DD)

Rationale

Listed as Data Deficient in view of continuing uncertainties as to its extent of occurrence, status and ecological requirements.